Tom Sestito was ejected from Monday night's Flyers/Rangers preseason game after delivering a hit from behind. There's no word yet on any suspension or fine from the league, but the hit was blatant enough that I'd be amazed if he doesn't get suspended for it.

On Tuesday, it was announced that he was sent to the Phantoms, though he'll have to clear waivers before being added to the roster.

I've seen the AHL partially honor other leagues' suspensions before. See: Jesse Boulerice (twice), Steve Downie. Their suspensions in the AHL weren't as long as the corresponding suspensions from other leagues, but they did have to spend some games in the press box before being allowed to join the Phantoms. So if Sestito gets sternly treated by the NHL, he might have to sit out games in the AHL, as well.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Phantoms to Host Hershey in Outdoor Classic at Citizens Bank Park on January 6

It is an historic and proud day for the Adirondack Phantoms who have announced they will host and play their first ever outdoor game in franchise history. The Phantoms will be part of the NHL Winter Classic week-long celebration of hockey when they play the Hershey Bears at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA, on Friday, January 6.

"This is an extremely exciting day for the Phantoms organization and Phantoms fans everywhere," said Phantoms President Rob Brooks. "A hockey celebration and atmosphere unlike anything the AHL has ever seen will happen at Citizens Bank Park. We are extremely grateful to (Comcast Spectacor President) Peter Luukko for helping make this truly great event a reality."

It was also announced that the Philadelphia Flyers will play the New York Rangers in the NHL's annual Winter Classic at Citizens Bank Park on Monday, January 2. This is the fifth NHL Winter Classic but the first ever to also feature an AHL outdoor game as part of the festivities.

"The American Hockey League has a strong following in the region and it will be a terrific experience for Pennsylvania hockey fans as the historic Phantoms-Bears rivalry is renewed outdoors at Citizens Bank Park," said David Andrews, AHL President and Chief Executive Officer.

"We are thrilled to join with the Philadelphia Flyers in adding AHL hockey to their outdoor showcase."

The Phantoms and Bears will also wear specially designed jerseys honoring the significance of the Outdoor Classic, similar to the fantastic jerseys the NHL teams have worn in their Winter Classic games.

It will be an especially memorable event for the players themselves who will have the honor of getting to skate on this incredible night. Many of the players grew up with frozen ponds in their backyards where they would play for hours on end. The Outdoor Classic is an homage to those youthful hockey experiences. For these players to now get to play outdoors in front of a huge crowd at a major league stadium is truly once-in-a-lifetime stuff which all will surely remember as an all-time highlight of their careers.

"This will be a terrific opportunity for hockey fans throughout Philadelphia to see the future prospects of the Flyers in a truly unique setting," said Comcast-Spectacor President Peter Luukko. "We're very excited to add a Phantoms regular season game to our week-long celebration of the Winter Classic being in Philadelphia. We look forward to working with both (owners) Rob and Jim Brooks in bringing the Phantoms back to Philadelphia for this truly special night."

This will be the third outdoor game in AHL history; The Syracuse Crunch hosted the Binghamton Senators on February 20, 2010 at the New York State Fairgrounds in front of 21,508 fans. The Connecticut Whale hosted the Providence Bruins on February 19, 2011 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT breaking the league's attendance record with 21,673.

"It is exciting to have a chance to break the league attendance record," Brooks said. "In fact, that is our goal and we absolutely believe it will happen. Fans will want to be there just to soak in the magical atmosphere and to be a part of history!"

Citizens Bank Park is the major league baseball home of the Philadelphia Phillies and will have a seating capacity of approximately 40,000.

Details on how to purchase tickets for the Outdoor Classic will be available soon. One way to be guaranteed a ticket is to become a Phantoms season ticket holder.

Mark your calendars! Adirondack Phantoms Opening Night is Saturday, October 8. The Phantoms take on the Connecticut Whale to begin the third season of exciting Phantoms hockey in Glens Falls. Get great savings and have fun with your friends, family or co-workers by bringing your group of 15 or more fans to enjoy fast-paced, hard-hitting Phantoms hockey. Call the Phantoms to find out more at 518-480-3355 and check the team's website at phantomshockey.com.

Follow the Phantoms on twitter @phantomshockey and on facebook.com/adkhockey

About Me

I'm a married lady with two spoiled cats and a spoiled dog, living in South Philly. I like reading, writing, music, hockey, and techie stuff.
On any given Sunday morning, you might find me as the sign language interpreter in the church where I grew up. I'm there on two Sundays per month.
During hockey season, look for me to be watching the Flyers on TV or watching Phantoms games online. Or, on a really good day, watching my teams in person.